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Reviews

it's a great school and i really like it alot. school lunches, i don't really like

- submitted by a
student

February 07, 2015

Both of my children have attended River City Science Academy since kindergarten and have been there for almost five years. I can not express enough how amazing our personal experiences have been and how pleased we ALL are with the school, teachers, parents, administrators, and staff. It's true, the academic pace is fast and best suited to children who pick up new information quickly, retain it well, and make use of that information readily and without much repetition. While there are many areas for a child to excel, this is a school for the STEM focus also River City Science Academy does have wonderful "specials" opportunities in music, art, and sports and many many more.

- submitted by a
parent

February 06, 2015

I have two kids at rcsa and I hope they will go to the best universities. College information night was very successful, I really learned a lot. Thank you!

- submitted by a
parent

February 05, 2015

This school is just a wonderful place, especially for a STEM learner. We have felt so welcomed and part of a community of talented teachers and students. My kids really needed the differentiation and extensions to the curriculum as well as the social emotional support provided at this school. The teachers could not be more dedicated and committed to helping each child reach his or her potential. What a special honor it is to be here! I suggest River City Science Academy to everyone who wants better education.

- submitted by a
parent

February 04, 2015

Great school. Instant access to student progress. Open, two-way communication. My son loves the school and his teachers. Highly recommend to parents who are looking for a free, private-like school.

- submitted by a
parent

February 04, 2015

Excellent school with dedicated staff members working hard during school lunch time after school weekends and even holidays!!! High expectations from all students

- submitted by a
teacher

February 04, 2015

I always have the most wonderful experience here. Excellent Teachers and the most friendly and attentive staff. School has best curriculum around the Jax.

- submitted by a
parent

February 04, 2015

Great school , excellent Teachers, nice atmosphere for Parents and Students. Very good and use friendly parent portal and class behavior app (new in 1st grade).

- submitted by a
parent

December 04, 2014

Instant access to student progress is a great future. Athletic teams are growing. We are dying to see the gym completed. Thanks for the update...

- submitted by a
parent

October 05, 2014

Rcsa is by far the worst school in Duval county, the school is all about getting into high officials pockets(check out the gullen movement). The school lets people run the academics who have no idea how to connect with students. The school is more concerned with money than the students education. The school also forces students off campus when it's over, so if you're a parent and you're running late then you can pick your child up on the busiest road in Jacksonville. Students are the least of the schools concern, it's all about your money.

- submitted by a
community member

August 26, 2014

This school is (was) great, my children have attended this school for four years. The new principal Mr. Oz, I think it is, is not a really motivating individual. I think he has brought the morale down in High School, trying to take away sports and any other activity the kids may enjoy. If this principal is there next school year, we would be better off allowing the children to attend local the local high school. my stars are based on the school as a whole.

- submitted by a
parent

June 25, 2014

Does not matter how dedicated the teachers are, you will not be allowed to stay, if you do not bend to the will of the new prinipal. Ask why the best teachers left or were fired. A better group of teachers could not be found, but he did not respect them or the students or their parents. Don't be fooled. They only did well this year because of the dedicated staff, but next year will tell the story....

- submitted by a
community member

June 22, 2014

Dedicated staff great learning environment that is strict for some.....You need to follow rules in this school. It is hard to stay as a teacher without dedication.

- submitted by a
community member

May 22, 2014

I really don't like this school. the rules sucks. We are not allowed to use our phone or wear whatever we want and the teachers are so rude , also students as well.

- submitted by a
community member

May 12, 2014

As soon as the last car leaves from picking up students the other children are kicked off campus to stand out by the street. Rude office worker.

- submitted by a
parent

April 29, 2014

My School is the best in Duval County. Strong academics with caring staff. They give more than 100% always. My kids are very happy and like to go to school.

- submitted by a
parent

March 05, 2014

This school is awful. I've been a student since the second year it has been open and it's literally so unorganized and unprofessional. The teachers are great, don't get me wrong, but the administration is so haywire and all over the place. I will NOT be returning for my senior year because I now have to fix my grades and everything that this school has screwed up along the way due to their mistakes.

- submitted by a
community member

February 25, 2014

This school is great, the teachers are very friendly. My kids love their school. You don't have to worry about bullies at this school.

- submitted by a
parent

February 23, 2014

Best school good teacher and staf very helpful .Kids are happy to go to this school every day .

- submitted by a
parent

October 11, 2013

Everybody who comes here is amazed how friendly and calm the kids are. One can feel the atmosphere of integrity here. I am very happy with my son's teachers and the school in general. Thanks, RCSA. :)

- submitted by a
parent

October 10, 2013

We are like a family here. It's very difficult to find this safe environment in other schools. Happy to be at RCSA.

- submitted by a
teacher

October 09, 2013

My sons' school is River City Science Academy. I am completely satisfied with his AP and Honors courses. I do regret society has banished Science fairs with actual (potentially slightly dangerous) science projects for all to see and be inspired by, but that is not a school specific policy. I am impressed with the level of order maintained and the swift correction of those accustomed to chaos. I kinda wish it to remain a secret!

- submitted by a
parent

October 09, 2013

This school is Amazing! They are so focused on having their students achieve the very best, and their expectations on the kids is very high which is wonderful. The entire school is focused on excellence. They are truly top-notch.

- submitted by a
parent

October 09, 2013

Excellent academic program. Great to have a school that focuses primarily on academics rather than sports. Students are held accountable for their work. Students are encouraged to participate in Science Olympiad, County Science and History fairs and AP classes.

- submitted by a
parent

October 09, 2013

RCSA has been a blessing to my family since they've opened their doors! They are the most compassionate, enthusiastic and genuine bunch of teachers I've ever met. They truly care about their students and giving them all the tools and opportunities to succeed. Love them! Both my girls go there!

- submitted by a
parent

October 09, 2013

River City Science Academy is a wonderful school my son has been a student there since 6th grade and is now in 9th grade, the Teachers and staff care about the kids, there is nice programs after school for students to attend free of charge.

- submitted by a
parent

September 26, 2013

THIS SCHOOL HAS EXCELLENT ENVIRONMENT FOR ITS STAFF, STUDENTS AND PARENTS. SERVERS GREAT MINDS. GO ROCKETS!!!

- submitted by a
teacher

September 03, 2013

Sometimes there may be a bad apple in the bunch! I must admit that one of my kid s teachers is Awesome. On the other hand there is another teacher has no passion in what she does. Her class work is for daycare students! This is FAR BELOW my expectations of an A . It s good to have a friendly environment but its better with the kids are actually learning. I no longer believe all the hype I see posted on the reviews!!!! Yes the staff is GREAT but this Teacher needs another Job!!!

- submitted by a
parent

August 25, 2013

Hi! My son is a new 5th grade student at RCSA this year and he has come home every day so far telling our family how much he loves it here! He had trouble at his last school with one teacher mostly, and a few of the children. The first day at RCSA, he came home saying, "I love it here! I made some friends, the kids are nicer and a lot better behaved! And I like my teachers a lot!". Boy, that warmed my heart! My son even said that the days just fly right by because he's having such a good experience. We are so pleased and can't wait to see what the rest of the year brings! Thanks River City!

- submitted by a
parent

August 24, 2013

My son had E grades in reading and math in kindergarten at another school, but U in behavior. He did NOT like going to school. First word out of his mouth after Day 1 in first grade at RCSA was "Awesome, and I stayed on green all day!" (good behavior). Second day, he was so excited to go to school that he forgot to give us a kiss as he raced from the car to school. His teacher is supportive and attentive. We hope the rest of the year will go as well.

- submitted by a
parent

August 24, 2013

River City is an excellent school with teachers and staff who truly care for students education and overall development. I would highly recommend this school to any family in Jacksonville.

- submitted by a
parent

August 23, 2013

I am impressed with the level of expectations for the students at RCSA. The teachers staff and students are all dedicated to learning and challenging themselves each day.

- submitted by a
teacher

August 23, 2013

I am so excited to be joining the staff at River City Science Academy. The faculty and staff are very kind, caring, and dedicated. I am also so impressed by the students and parents. Everyone is genuinely dedicated to the education of children!

- submitted by a
teacher

August 23, 2013

RCSA has been a great fit for my children and our family. My kids are challenged and love the staff. This is our second year attending for both of our children and we have been very happy with the curriculum.

- submitted by a
parent

August 23, 2013

I feel blessed to have been informed about RCSA because the teachers and the staff are excellent. The additional guidance and assistance they provide to the students are by far the best. Also, they push the kids to think outside of the box, focusing on the future ahead of them. I love them.

- submitted by a
parent

August 23, 2013

My Children's School is Awesome, the teachers are helpful and willing to work with you to ensure that each child has a chance to succeed.

- submitted by a
parent

August 23, 2013

This school is always striving to be a top leader in educating children. It is an excellent school, providing an excellent education.

- submitted by a
parent

August 23, 2013

My school is River City Science Academy Elementary. Great School. My son now in third grade. He started at RCSA in third grade. His last school left my son with a very bad impressions when it comes to schools and learning. His attitude changed 180 degrees. He started enjoying school and learning. My son actually started enjoying going to school. By the end of the year, he asked me, "Why does school have to end for the summer." An amazing change.

- submitted by a
parent

August 23, 2013

My daughter Vikas Sankar goes to River City Science Academy. It is a great school. The teachers are very dedicated. There is lot of importance given to Science specifically. Kids learn science through hands on activities. My daughter got selected in "National Science Bee" Competition, thanks to their advanced teaching. Overall she has a very pleasant experience and looks forward to school every day. I like the "Character Education" which they have in their curriculum. Great school !!!

- submitted by a
parent

August 22, 2013

RCSA is the best charter school in Florida. We have dedicated teachers, parents and support staff that always go above and beyond the call of duty. Some teachers work on weekends and holidays, others sacrifice money to see that all the needs of their classrooms are being met. I love the students, the teachers, the parents, and even our administration is great. River City Science Academy is best thing that Florida has to offer to students from every walk of life.

- submitted by a
teacher

August 22, 2013

RCSA is a great school. Teachers are dedicated, and the students love coming to school everyday. Administration is supportive and visible throughout the school.

- submitted by a
teacher

May 16, 2013

My daughter switched during 2012-2023 year after first nine weeks at Arlington Middle. She had not been successful her first report card and when RCA had an opening ,we enrolled. She was behind other kids but with tutoring and extra help from teacher she has excelled even working a grade level higher. She had changed her study habits and her confidence has improved so much by succeeding. Last report card she made all A's and B's and one C . She talks about college and looks forward to her report card . They have FCAT and SAT studies on Saturday to help prepare kids for tests. I feel blessed that we enrolled her and she can go here until she graduates. I would recommend this school to anyone that is in a similar situation even if changing your child will upset them initially. It was the best decision we ever made and I believe she feels the same. Thank you Tiffany Beattie

- submitted by a
parent

April 14, 2013

This is my sons first year at RCSA. We came from a private school where he was labeled a trouble maker because he was not challenged and bored to tears! This school has been a blessing for him. He has rose to meet the challenge they present to him. He is not labeled. He has made friends and enjoys going to school everyday. He loves his teachers who see his potential and push him to raise and meet the challenge. This school has been a blessing for my child!

- submitted by a
parent

January 24, 2013

Academically challenging! As a parent, I'm very pleased with this school. I know that my child is in a safe environment where he will not be bullied. This school is a good option for us parents who have well behaved children that we don't want to subject to the rough environment of the typical public school in Jacksonville. I love the way the school pushes him academically to really bring out his potential. This school has very strict policies and I'm glad to see they enforce them. It is very much like a private school - at public school prices.

- submitted by a
parent

November 11, 2012

My kids have been in this school for 4 years. The quality of education, the academics, and extracurricular activities are top at the region. They kept all their promises and implemented the programs. They continue to grow; I wish they open other campuses closer to my house.

- submitted by a
parent

October 31, 2012

What makes River City Science Academy Elementary special is their philosospy of teaching to the whole child. I have heard other schools say the same thing and never actually seen it happen. At RCSA, they focus on teaching our children to really think through, what they call, a " teachable moment." While their Code of Conduct is very strict and can be severe, it is not just at random or without thought. My own child has been suspended (1st grade). I was livid at first, but after I sat down with the principal, the teacher and my child to learn and see all of the steps of communication and reflection - yes a 6 year old wrote a reflection answering "why"- that had been done before the suspension; I was amazed at not only the amount of individual time that was given to my child and myself. I was also amazed at how honest my child was and that there was real learning from the choice they made. My children have been there since the elementary opened 2 years ago. I have watched it grow into a wonderful educational environment where traditional values of respect, responsibility and citizenship are still held ego a high standard, taught and enforced. "C" to "A" in 1 year! Wow

- submitted by a
parent

October 22, 2012

As a parent of a student that has been at RCSA for three years. I can't ask for better. She gets a very high quality education as well and the atmosphere of a small school. The teachers are very caring and willing to help when the students need it. As for the behavior the school has a no tolerance policy for bad behavior and I love that because it gets the students put of the classroom so the other students can focus and learn. I can't say enough good things about the school and staff. I couldn't be happier with my daughters education. As for the previous comment about the teachers and staff not knowing how to care for their students is totally false sometimes you have to look closer to home because its the students behavior that is out of control not the teachers and staff. I commend them for setting a precedence for all students to follow. I LOVE THIS SCHOOL!!!!!!

- submitted by a
parent

October 15, 2012

Awesome school !!! Great teachers and staff. My kids are happy and they want to go to school everyday without any hesitation, even weekends.

- submitted by a
parent

October 15, 2012

Great school. Middle school is always a big transition but RCSA helped ease my daughter into the her future by helping her define her goals. She was always a good student, but the encouragement of the teachers help her get past the usual preteen anxieties and focus on her studies. They also provide awesome afterschool clubs which help give every student a chance to feel like they belong. I recommmend this school to any parent whose student is ready to face the challenges of the science and technological future.

- submitted by a
parent

October 15, 2012

As a parent of a student that has been attending RCSA for the past 4 years, I can't say enough about it. The excellence that comes to the students actually starts with the great administration and their vision. Their foresight into the fact that EVERY student should have the opportunity to go to college if they so choose. The staff reiterates this in the teaching of the subjects not teaching for the tests. The teachers are dedicated to the success of all students with daily tutoring and weekend study sessions. Not to mention FCAT, PSAT and SAT prep for those who are interested, all at NO additional cost. I haven't found another school that has shown this much dedication to it's students anywhere. I will continue to support RCSA even after my son graduates. Because I for one want this school to be available to many more students in the years to come.

- submitted by a
parent

October 15, 2012

We are so happy and relieved to have found RCSA! I would give it 10 stars if I could. My children are now in 10th and 8th grades and we are thrilled with our move from private schools to RCSA three years ago. Faculty are dedicated to student success, especially the Administration who welcome parent feedback and are involved at all levels. Advanced placement and honors courses are offered to challenge and prepare my children for college. Tutoring is offered every week in most subjects. SAT prep is available every weekend - unbelievably all this extra help is available at no charge to the students! My children have really enjoyed the after school clubs such as Science olympiad where the students compete with other schools in Florida on various science topics. The campus is new and is designed for small class sizes along with the latest smart board technology. My children wear uniforms, just like private school but they are not nearly as expensive. It is such a relief to have found a school where we can remain from middle school until they graduate and we do not need to use college savings or drive across town to provide them a great education. Keep up the great work!

- submitted by a
parent

June 12, 2012

I have been attending rcsa since the 6th grade. I'm now entering the 9th grade and will continue attending to the school for high school. River city science academy is not just a school it's a place where you have family and friends and people who care for you. The staff treats you like your their own family. It's a very warm school , and since I have been attending the I have taken all advance classes and I have been a straight a student. RCSA is a school that has a small atmosphere so when you don't understand something in class the teacher actually takes the time to review it because there isn't a large body of students in class. If your considering a k-12 school where your child can get the best that's offered RCSA is the place . (:

- submitted by a
community member

February 11, 2012

The parent says the student has been attending the school since the school first opened which was 5 ( five ) years ago. It took five years for you to realize that grades and overall attitude have gone down? I think the comment is irrational. The school recently offered the new AP program and appealing Dual Enrollment opportunity to my boy. I am very happy with RCSA. Go Rockets!

- submitted by a
parent

January 31, 2012

My daughter has been attending this school since it first opened and at first I loved the school especially the small setting appealed to me! They did a home visit with us to see how we lived as a family which I thought was neat. The problem I don't think is 100% of the faculty's fault but I truely believe they have a lot of troubled teens that are being transferred from other public schools to RCSA plus they don't break out the middle school kids vs. the high school which is a formula for trouble. They also are NOT the most organized. I feel my daughter's grades and overall attitude have went downhill since attending this school and she will not be attending next year. I would suggest staying far far away from this school!!

- submitted by a
parent

January 28, 2012

As a teacher at RCSA for 3 years now, I really love the atmosphere we have created. The staff feels like a family and coming to work is great because we as teachers are given alot of freedom to try new things and administration has our back and supports us in the classroom. New things are always being created at RCSA to make it better. The middle school athletics is growing by leaps and bounds and the high school athletics added a girls basketball team this year. The boys basketball team in high school has been doing phenomenally well for it's 3rd year, 11 wins and 1 loss. The after school tutoring, the clubs, and other activities really make RCSA the place to be. I rate it a 4 out of 5 just because it is missing some things here and there that would make it truly amazing.

- submitted by a
teacher

September 30, 2011

I really appreciate the way my child is pushed academically. His capabilities have far exceeded my expectations, thanks to this school!

- submitted by a
parent

August 08, 2011

i kinda disagree with the other reviews of teachers and students. iv been at rcsa (river city science academy) since the second year it opened and am now going into my second year of its high school. and frankly i'm disappointed. sure the small setting is great for middle school and you get to connect further with your friends but when you enter high school things change. suddenly you hear your friends at other "real" high school talking about their special elective classes, attending high school dances and football games. and as a student at rcsa i can strongly confirm i'm not the only person that feels this way when i say, we feel left out of our high school experience. if you want your child to perform academically mediocre then by all means this school is great for average not advanced or AP classes.(there is only 1) and when people say you have teachers that "care" it just means teachers that have to move grades with you and honestly you don't want that. especially when you don't like your teachers. if you want your kid to make long lasting friends and standout on there collage application. take it from a kid that is going through it. this is not the place to go. dont do it

- submitted by a
community member

August 01, 2011

I've been a student at RCSA since it's first year open in 2007. Coming from Southside Middle I really thought this school would feel like jail. My mom transferred me when she figured out SMS was doing no good for me and I was close to being expelled. My first year I made difficult for myself. As the next year came, I began building friendships and connections with the teachers and students here. After my 3rd year I realized the school is like my second family. RCSA is an excellent school and really made me think twice about what I was becoming and who i wanted to be. Through school programs and activities, I've gotten to visit places I would've never dreamed of seeing and to meet people who have truly changed my life. The curriculum is really well built and conforms to each students' speed and method of learning. I can honestly say RCSA is the best thing that has happened to me.

- submitted by a
community member

May 26, 2011

My daughter attended duval county public schools from kindergarten thru sixth grade. In the fifth grade, she was bullied so badly, that she would go to bed at night, begging me to let her stay home from school. She'd cry so hard, she'd literally make herself sick. The teacher and principal did nothing about it. Her once above average grades fell drastically, but the principal suggested that maybe the work had become too hard. We made it through the fifth grade daunted, and her first year of the sixth grade was filled with students that were so unruly, the teachers would throw up their hands and and give up on the lessons for the day. Very upsetting to a child who just wants to learn. The next year we enrolled her in River City Science Academy. In that first year, her grades were back to above average. She loved going to school, joined clubs, made new friends and has a confidence in herself that I was afraid I'd never see. Any success I see in my daughter, I owe partially to the charter school that has done so much for so many kids.

- submitted by a
parent

no ratingMarch 08, 2010

RSCA is more than just a school. The staff actually cares about your child well being. The staff works hard to understand each and every student. Everyone that goes to this school is treated as a individual and not a number!!!!

- submitted by a
parent

no ratingJanuary 26, 2010

Bravo for RCSA! The staff is wonderful and provide a structured, yet loving relationship with the students. Happy high school students, can you imagine.

- submitted by a
parent

August 21, 2009

out of anyother school this one is the best. best on academic's and it has the best teachers u could ever find in jacksonville. they work with your kid if he/she has a problem with any subject they would be happy to help your child.

- submitted by a
parent

July 08, 2009

This is a great school, caring teachers! private school quality at a public school!! this will be my child's 2nd year here. We are very pleased. Smaller class size for better learning for the kids, very hands on. Alot of multi cultural expierences for my child. Way to go rcsa!!!

- submitted by a
parent

no ratingJune 16, 2009

Excellent individual attention. Caring teachers and administrators. Education is excellent, my child has excelled.. the arts have not been cut!! The teachers are very involved with the children and offer after school clubs and tutoring.

- submitted by a
parent

no ratingFebruary 03, 2009

I think they are doing wonderfull job. I am so thanks full to teacher and the staff for there wonderfull jobs..My child is very happy to be in this school .very modern and europen teaching methot .

- submitted by a
parent

January 25, 2009

This review submitted without content.

- submitted by a
parent

January 22, 2009

I can't tell how dedicated teachers and staff the school have. They are doing wonderful job eventhough the school is pretty new. My child is getting what he needs...

- submitted by a
parent

July 17, 2008

science collage prep an amazing school for youths who are excel in math and science!!

- submitted by a
student

no ratingJuly 16, 2008

My son attended this school last year the first year they were open for his sixth grade year. I am very pleased with this school . The teachers are great and are very dedicated to the students. I am so pleased that I am sending my next son there this comming year for his sixth grade year. He was in the Duval county star program for children who feel behind do to not passing the third grade FCAT. He is being double promoted and I feel that the teachers here have the dedication to their students that he will surly stay on track. Also love the internet access to all home work, grades and e-mail conection with teachers. Pleased parent.

- submitted by a
parent

July 08, 2008

I couldn t be more pleased with this school. This was their first year in operation and they did a wonderful job. My children have attended both public and private schools and the amount of communication and dedicate that I ve seen at this school is comparable to private schools. Every time I contact the school or a teach I received a quick response. They have a website for parents to monitor their child s performance at any time; I don t have to wait for a progress report or report card to know what my sons grades are like. Class work and homework assignments are also available which is great since my child has a tendency to forget what he needs to do. Overall I couldn t be more pleased with this school.

- submitted by a
parent

no ratingMarch 22, 2008

I am a teacher andtruly enjoying teaching in this school and I am happy to be part of this family.

- submitted by a
teacher

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